McLaren Unveils Special Monaco Livery to Celebrate Historic 1000th Formula 1 Grand Prix

Monaco, June 3, 2026: McLaren Racing is set to mark one of the most significant milestones in its illustrious motorsport history by celebrating its 1000th Formula 1 Grand Prix with a special commemorative livery at the Monaco Grand Prix. The iconic papaya team will run the unique design on the MCL40 driven by Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri during both the Monaco and Spanish Grands Prix.

The celebratory livery combines McLaren’s signature metallic papaya colour with anthracite accents, while incorporating subtle visual tributes to the team’s remarkable six-decade Formula 1 journey. Hidden throughout the design are references to major milestones including McLaren’s first Formula 1 race, championship triumphs, race victories, the coveted Triple Crown achievement and the team’s record-breaking pit stop performances.

The anniversary theme centres around the message “McLaren Never Quits,” highlighting not only the team’s successes but also the resilience that has defined its history through challenging periods and remarkable comebacks.

A Historic Return to Monaco

The choice of Monaco as the venue for McLaren’s 1000th Grand Prix celebration carries special significance. It was on the streets of the Principality that team founder Bruce McLaren entered McLaren’s first-ever Formula 1 race in 1966 with the M2B.

Sixty years later, the Woking-based squad returns to the same circuit having established itself as one of Formula 1’s most successful teams. Since that debut appearance, McLaren has amassed 203 Grand Prix victories, 561 podium finishes, 177 pole positions, 13 Drivers’ Championships and 10 Constructors’ Championships.

McLaren becomes only the second Formula 1 team in history to reach the landmark of 1000 Grand Prix starts, underscoring its enduring legacy in the sport.

Special Monaco Grid Celebration Planned

As part of the celebrations, McLaren will stage a unique moment on the Monaco grid on June 4. The original M2B, owned by Richard Mille, will be displayed alongside the MCL40, symbolically connecting the team’s first Formula 1 entry with its 1000th.

The occasion will bring together current McLaren leadership, including CEO Zak Brown and Team Principal Andrea Stella, alongside Norris and Piastri. Former McLaren Grand Prix winners from across generations have also been invited, along with Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

Zak Brown: ‘A Perfect Opportunity to Reflect’

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown described the occasion as a defining moment in the team’s history.

“Lining up on the grid to race McLaren’s 1000th Grand Prix in Monaco provides a perfect opportunity to recognise our rich history in motorsport. We’re only the second team to reach this incredible milestone, so what better moment to reflect on our past, our present and our future,” Brown said.

He added that the special livery embodies the team’s determination and resilience throughout periods of both success and adversity.

Drivers Ready for Landmark Weekend

Lando Norris, who secured McLaren’s most recent Monaco victory in 2025, called the anniversary weekend a proud moment for everyone associated with the team.

“It is a very special weekend for us as we celebrate such an incredible milestone. To have played my small part in McLaren’s incredible history is something I am very proud of,” Norris said.

Oscar Piastri echoed those sentiments, describing the 1000th Grand Prix as a huge achievement and expressing his desire to commemorate the occasion with a strong result on track.

Monaco: A Venue Steeped in McLaren History

McLaren’s relationship with Monaco is among the most successful in Formula 1 history. The team has recorded 16 victories, 12 pole positions, 30 podium finishes and 12 fastest laps around the famous street circuit.

Among the standout moments is the team’s first Monaco victory at the 1984 Monaco Grand Prix, when Alain Prost triumphed in treacherous wet-weather conditions driving the MP4/2. The rain-soaked race became one of Formula 1’s most memorable contests, featuring the emergence of a young Ayrton Senna, whose stunning drive from 13th on the grid nearly overturned Prost’s lead before officials halted the race due to dangerous conditions.

The victory marked the beginning of Prost’s remarkable Monaco record and played a key role in McLaren’s path toward achieving motorsport’s prestigious Triple Crown.

Looking Towards the Future

While the 1000th Grand Prix celebration is rooted firmly in McLaren’s history, the team views the milestone as a launchpad for future success. The commemorative livery serves as both a tribute to the achievements of the past six decades and a statement of intent for the years ahead.

As McLaren returns to the venue where its Formula 1 journey began in 1966, the special Monaco weekend promises to be one of the most memorable celebrations in the team’s storied history.